Reviews
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Blues Matters - The Tyneside Americana Blues Festival at Cullercoats Crescent Club 2024
After a hearty breakfast the main stage came alive with Yorkshire based DC Blues, fronted by the effervescent Paul Winn, vocalist, and harmonica player. Accompanied by a tight band with Lloyd Massingham on lead guitar, Ben Darwin on bass guitar, Paul Thompson on drums, and Stephen Brandon on keyboards. They marked their territory with a unique rendition of Rollin’ & Tumblin’. Their chemistry was evident, highlighted by a powerful keyboard performance. They explored diverse styles, infusing gospel vibes into "Take Me Down" and igniting the crowd with the energetic "Who Do You Love" which featured a well received drum solo by “Tommo". The performance concluded memorably with "Nervous Fella" with Paul engaging the crowd in a participatory treat.
Saltburn Blues Club - Jan 2024
The blues came up from the Delta, the Mississippi Delta, but in tonight’s case from the Ouse Delta, to New Marske Institute. DC Blues hail from York, and these guys know a thing or two about that kind of music as singer Paul Winn and bassist Ben Darwin not only host a radio show Blues From The Ouse, but also organise York Blues Festival, so they deserve some kudos even if they couldn’t play a note between them. But they can! Along with Lloyd Massingham on guitar, Steve Brandon on keys and Paul Thompson on drums. This band build a driving, energetic sound and their understanding of dynamics is best displayed on their signature "Somebody Loan Me A Dime". Instrumentally, Steve widens the attack by switching from his Hammond sound to introduce electric piano, facing off Paul on harp and fending off Lloyd’s fluent guitar licks, and when they fall into a boogie (and they like a boogie or two), you need a rhythm section like Ben and Tommo to knit the band tight, a platform for Paul’s capable vocals. When vintners discuss wine, they ask, “Does it travel?” Be assured the blues can, all the way from the Ouse and DC Blues proved it tonight.